Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Yay me! This book is my final review of 2017! And what a way to end a wonderful year of reviews!

About the book:

The police say the woman was a murderer. Emilie Wesley knows they can't be talking about her client . . . can they?
To the world it seems obvious: Kaylene Adams killed her daughter and then was shot by police. Attorney Emilie Wesley knows a different story: Kaylene would never hurt anyone and was looking for a way out of a controlling, abusive relationship. Her death shakes Emilie's belief that she can make a difference for women in violent marriages. Self-doubt plagues her as she struggles to continue her work in the wake of the tragedy.
Reid Billings thought he knew his sister-right up until he learned how she died. He discovers a letter from Kaylene begging him to fight for custody of her daughters if anything should happen to her. No attorney in her right mind would support an uncle instead of the father in a custody case, but Kaylene's letter claims Emilie Wesley will help him.
Thrown together in a race to save Kaylene's surviving daughter, Emily and Reid pursue the constantly evasive truth. If they can hang on to hope together, can they save a young girl-and find a future for themselves in the process?Learn more and purchase a copy.

About Cara Putman:

Cara Putman is the author of more than 25 legal thrillers, historical romances, and romantic suspense novels. She has won or been a finalist for honors including the ACFW Book of the Year and the Christian Retailing's BEST Award. Cara graduated high school at 16, college at 20, completed her law degree at 27, and recently received her MBA. She is a practicing attorney, teaches undergraduate and graduate law courses at a Big Ten business school, and is a homeschooling mom of four. She lives with her husband and children in Indiana.
Find out more about Cara athttp://caraputman.com.

My Thoughts:

First let me say that I applaud Ms. Putman for tackling such a difficult subject as abuse. I know the pain of control and manipulation, and Ms. Putman tells the story with realism and honesty.

This book has it all, a legal thriller, with romantic tension, and mystery. This was a very personal book for me. I identified with Kaylene and Reid. While Kaylene is dead, her story is told through both Emile and Reid. Reid wants to know the truth and protect his niece and the truth about what really happened that fateful night.

My Bottom Line:

While this is a fast-paced thrill ride, it is also a heart-wrenching story. Ms. Putman uses her legal skills, and knowledge to craft a real to life story. Reid is a sweet hero. Emile is a strong heroine, who has a soft heart, she wants to be loved, but she is scared to trust and allow herself to fall in love. The inspirational thread is not overwhelming but is definitely present. While this is book two in her Hidden Justice series, it can be read alone.

Interview with Cara Putman

What are your ideal writing conditions?
I have emotional energy, a little space, and good music playing in the background. I also have characters I love and a story thread I can’t wait to unravel.

If you could write in a different genre, which would you choose?
I would return to my World War II novels. I have so many stories left to tell in that space. Someday I’d love to write one of those a year along with the legal thrillers.

What book have you reread the most?
It’s a toss up between Anne of Green Gables, Little House on the Prairie, and Dee Henderson’s The Negotiator or Danger in the Shadows.

If you could have lunch with any literary character, who would it be and why?
Anne with an E – I would love to meet her as a grown woman.

Favorite first line of a book:
In the beginning… we all need to be reminded that there are new beginnings waiting for us.

Do you have a go-to writing snack?
Coffee and a little bite of chocolate from an Aldi’s chocolate bar. Or nachos.

What is your favorite writing tool?
My laptop!

If you were trapped in a book, what fictional place would you like to explore?
Oh, this reminds me of the middle grade series Land of Stories! Such fun. I would choose The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, because I’d get to experience London during the Blitz (ties to WWII) and Narnia.

What would the title of your biography be?
A Wonder Woman who didn’t Feel so Wonderful All the Time

If you could live a day in one of your characters’ lives, who would you choose?
Emilie. The state of passion for her work that she feels is inspiring. She also cares deeply about her friends and clients.

Favorite quote:
Delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4

Disclaimer:

I received this book compliments of NetGalley through Litfuse Publishing's blogger program. I was not required to write a positive review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.